15q261

15q261 is a notation referring to a cytogenetic band on the long arm (q arm) of chromosome 15, at the region designated 26.1. In standard chromosomal nomenclature, this places the locus within the distal portion of chromosome 15’s q arm, a region studied for its gene content and potential structural variations. The exact genetic content of 15q26.1 can vary depending on the genome build and the precision of breakpoint mapping, as it encompasses a genomic interval that may contain multiple genes.

Clinical and research interest in 15q26.1 centers on copy number variations (CNVs) such as deletions or duplications that encompass part or all of the region. Reported CNVs in this area have been associated with a spectrum of phenotypes, particularly involving neurodevelopment, growth, and congenital anomalies. However, the clinical significance of a CNV in 15q26.1 is highly dependent on the size of the CNV and the specific genes affected; some alterations may be benign or of uncertain significance, while others can contribute to recognizable syndromic features. Because phenotypic outcomes are variable, careful interpretation by clinical geneticists is required, often integrating family history and multiple testing results.

Detection of 15q26.1 abnormalities is commonly achieved through genomic screening methods such as array comparative genomic hybridization (array CGH) or SNP-based microarrays, and can be complemented by sequencing-based approaches for precise breakpoint determination. These findings are typically reported within the broader context of chromosome 15 and may prompt targeted follow-up testing and genetic counseling to assess recurrence risk and implications for affected individuals.